PRES. TRUMP SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO RESTRUCTURE THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
President Donald Trump signed an executive order to begin restructuring the Department of Education, raising concerns about the potential impact on agricultural education programs like the National FFA Organization.
National FFA Organization CEO Scott Stump reassures stakeholders that his organization remains committed to supporting agricultural education and leadership development and is actively collaborating with Congress to maintain the integrity of FFA programs.
Scott joined us on the Market Day Report Monday morning to provide further updates and insights. Watch the full interview at the link below.
READ MORE: FFA CEO Scott Stump on how dismantling the DOE affects the National FFA Organization
LAWMAKERS TO TRUMP: CONSIDER HOW TRADE POLICIES IMPACT FARMERS
As another trade deadline looms with reciprocal tariffs set to begin on April 2, a group of House Republicans, led by Texas Representative Jodey Arrington, is urging President Trump to consider the impact on U.S. farmers. The lawmakers warn that trade barriers imposed by other countries are hurting farmers, particularly the U.S. beef industry. With the ag trade deficit at a record $32 billion, there are concerns about the potential consequences of the tariffs on U.S. agriculture.
READ MORE: Lawmakers’ letter to Pres. Trump: Keep ag in mind with trade policy discussions
SMALL FARMS BRACE FOR POTENTIAL TAX POLICY CHANGES
Small farms and businesses are closely monitoring the future of the 2017 tax cuts, with particular attention on the ‘pass-through’ tax break. A former USDA official emphasizes extending the 199A provision, crucial in balancing corporate and small business interests. The Bipartisan Policy Center warns that while the tax breaks could be significant for farmers, they remain uncertain about how to make the numbers work.
READ MORE: What will happen if Congress doesn’t take action on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act?
USDA TACKLES HIGH EGG PRICES + AVIAN FLU
Recent efforts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to combat high egg prices and the ongoing threat of High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI) have shown some success, with egg prices dropping recently. However, there is still a delay in some regions as prices have not yet fully adjusted at retail levels.
In response, lawmakers introduced the “Lowering Egg Prices Act,” which would allow surplus broiler eggs to be sold for pasteurization. The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), argues that the legislation would reinstate common-sense regulations while maintaining food safety standards.
READ MORE: Lowering Egg Prices Act could allow broiler eggs to be sold for consumption
EXECUTIVE ORDER TO BOOST DOMESTIC MINERAL PRODUCTION
President Trump also signed an executive order to increase domestic production of critical minerals, including uranium, copper, potash, and possibly coal.
The order directs federal agencies to expedite the review of pending mineral projects and prioritize critical mineral production on federal lands. This move is part of a broader push to strengthen U.S. energy dominance, with the Defense Production Act set to aid in increasing mineral production.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH SPOTLIGHT: Haleyville FFA Chapter (AL)
March is Women’s History Month, and we’re celebrating the incredible women shaping the future of agriculture! Everyday in March, we will showcase feel-good stories and interviews highlighting the passion and persistence of powerful women in agriculture.
Since March is also National Disabilities Awareness Month, let’s check in with an Alabama FFA chapter with strong ties to both celebrations today. Haleyville Center of Technology FFA Advisor Jeff McKinney and President Maggie Morgan spoke with RFD-TV’s Tammi Arender about the chapter’s members and their Transition Agriculture program.
